Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to lots of abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break, depending on how they are stored and how much they are jostled.
Most key fob issues are fixable. But some are more serious and will require professional help. This is when a locksmith can be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty intelligent however that doesn't mean they won't sometimes become stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery when this happens. But remote key repair near me doesn't always solve the issue, since you could also have a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they often install a spare mechanical key inside the fob in case of such an emergency. It is accessible by finding the small release button or latch behind the fob. (Check the user manual to find out more). Pressing this will allow you to unlock the fob and access an actual key that you can use to unlock your car.
Another sign that your fob's batteries are dying is that you have to be a lot closer to your car in order to open and lock it than you did before. This is because the fob's transmitter loses strength when its battery dies, limiting its range of operation.
The replacement of the battery is simple and relatively cheap. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which looks like an elongated silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user's guide to remove the old battery. Then, replace the new battery in the same orientation that the previous one was inserted (the positive side should be facing upwards toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock and start functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the battery has been installed correctly.
Certain key fobs may be a little tricky to open however, you should be able to open them by placing the latch, switch or screw at the back of the fob and then tearing it apart. Be careful not to break the fob, because you'll need it to operate your car! You can also take your fob to an expert should you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself. Most auto shops will swap the battery of a fob at a minimal cost, since it's such a common repair service. Some dealers might even offer to perform the swap for free, based on the model and make of your vehicle.
Fob not working
Replace the batteries if your key fob does not work. This is the fastest fix and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your device does not work after changing the battery it could be due to damage.
The damage to your car's key fob for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma, water exposure, or a corroded circuit board. These issues can stop your key from sending the signal to the receiver in your car, which will then prevent your car's ignition or doors from locking. You may need to hire a professional to replace your key if it's damaged.
The buttons on your keychain could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear out and cause the buttons to become less springy or 'clicky' and may begin to fail to detect your pressing accurately. You can try wiping the buttons and then adjusting them to see if that fixes the issue, but it's usually recommended to send the fob to be professionally assessed for more extensive repairs.
You should also double check that the battery you're using is a perfect match for the fob you're using. You can find a list online or in a majority of hardware stores. Check the owner's manual or the engraving on the fob to find out more. A battery that is not a perfect match can have issues transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the internal components of the fob.
In the rarest of cases, it could be that the issue isn't with your key fob, but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the door using the physical key and start the car with the inductive backup (if it is available). If the physical key you have not open or start your car, make sure an expert check the electronic components and the receiver to ensure that they're working correctly.
Fob Is Damaged
A key fob is composed of a variety of parts and one issue can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases to function, it's important that you check for obvious causes like cracked casings or a damaged part. Check the horn, light and other parts of the car to make sure they are working properly.
If the key fob is damaged, it's best to obtain a replacement from your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of trying to repair it. The fob could require reprogramming in the car, which is something that cannot be done at home and requires special equipment to do this.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts to transmit signals to the circuit board on the key fob however, they can wear down over time. This is particularly true if the device is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
The internal wiring of a key fob can be worn out over time. This can result in buttons that don't function when it is pressed, or works when pressed very strongly. It could also result in the car not being able to start or unlock when the fob is used.
Most key fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original purpose. It's also a good idea to clean it frequently to avoid dirt damaging the inside.
A bad battery is usually the reason the key fob will not turn on or function. Many mechanics and car dealers can replace the batteries quickly however, if you're at ease doing it yourself you can purchase a battery from an hardware store or big-box retailer, and follow the instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The most likely scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, like cracks in the case, teeny electronic components not completely attached to the circuit board or corroded or bent contact points for batteries. If any of the above is the situation, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or dealer for a recommendation on a replacement as well as assistance in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
The car key fob is a convenient way to start your engine and unlock the doors of your vehicle. When they stop working, or are not working, it can be frustrating. In some cases the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery, however, in other instances it may require an even more complex repair. The first step is to determine the reason for the fob not functioning correctly.
One of the most frequent reasons for a malfunctioning fob is that it no longer recognizes your vehicle. This can happen when the connection between your remote and your car is damaged. This connection can be reset without the need for expensive key fob repair.
When the key fob is not sending a strong signal, other issues could be experienced. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to resync the key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the instructions on the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep an extra key, so that you can use it in the event that the primary key isn't working.
It's also possible that the fob isn't getting the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This could be caused by weak car batteries, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna problem. By using a remote tester you can test the fob and determine if it's the cause of the issue. If the tester doesn't blink when you press any of the buttons, it could be that the battery has to be replaced or that the fob has broken.
Another reason why the fob not transmitting a strong enough signal is that the car's immobilizer system may be preventing it from sending a strong signal. This could be the case if your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly or if there is a software problem.
If you are unable to fix the fob or it's not worth the effort to repair it, you need to purchase the new one. Many online retailers offer cheap options and some are delivered directly to your home.